CBS Los Angeles » Kent Shocknek’s Let’s Bloghttp://losangeles.cbslocal.com
News, Sports, Weather, Traffic and the Best of LA/OCTue, 03 Mar 2015 22:37:09 +0000enhourly1http://wordpress.com/http://1.gravatar.com/blavatar/5c05896c022a6d5696298ac60bad5bcf?s=96&d=http%3A%2F%2Fs2.wp.com%2Fi%2Fbuttonw-com.png » Kent Shocknek’s Let’s Bloghttp://losangeles.cbslocal.com
When in South Korea…http://losangeles.cbslocal.com/2014/05/13/when-in-south-korea/
http://losangeles.cbslocal.com/2014/05/13/when-in-south-korea/#commentsWed, 14 May 2014 02:08:16 +0000kshocknekhttp://losangeles.cbslocal.com/?p=529840(M)y car show-circuit pals say it looks like the top-shelf sedan that Jaguar should have designed.]]>It’s happened again: Kia’s styling department catches our eye, and we don’t regret looking closer. The South Korean manufacturer’s new K900 sedan is stunning, and the fit- and- finish are worthy of the European luxo-barges that cost tens of thousands of dollars more. Kia, and it’s corporate big brother Hyundai, have been on a role the last couple of years, from the most modest city cars, to racy rear-wheel drive coupes and sedans, to really plush rides, that –gasp– aren’t boring.

Hyundai’s Genesis 5.0 R-Spec. sedan is a V-8 bruiser with an 8-speed transmission that does more than hold its own against competitors like Audi’s A6, and Lexus’ GS 350. It may not get the props it deserves (I don’t see a lot of BMW 5-ers converting), but the Germans and the Japanese (and yes, Detroit) know not to be complacent: 15 years ago, Korean cars were still punchlines to car-guy jokes. Not now. Especially with Hyundai’s 10-year warrenty.

So back to the new Kia K900. Despite the rather-odd Laurence Fisherburne commercials (hey, it pays the bills), my car show-circuit pals say it looks like the top-shelf sedan that Jaguar should have designed. From the front, maybe. The inside feels like a leather sofa showroom; the LED lights do meaningful jobs, and the 9-inch center stack nav. map is glorious. the 8-speed transmission works invisibly. Kia has focused on making it the most comfortable big car for the money, and has succeeded.

All in all, not bad to have hits in almost every market segment there is.(Photo; courtesy manufacturer)

]]>http://losangeles.cbslocal.com/2014/05/13/when-in-south-korea/feed/0It’s a Revolutionhttp://losangeles.cbslocal.com/2013/12/10/its-a-revolution/
http://losangeles.cbslocal.com/2013/12/10/its-a-revolution/#commentsWed, 11 Dec 2013 00:56:23 +0000kshocknekhttp://losangeles.cbslocal.com/?p=471691Explorer just kept chugging along, largely unchanged. And unchanged. And unchanged. Until now.
]]>The Ford Explorer was not the first SUV of the modern era, but it’s the one most drivers think of first. For decades, a reliable work horse that could transport all the kids and all the stuff, without leading to arguments at home if it picked up some dings in the parking lot. When other manufacturers saw ord’s success and came up with their own SUVs, the Explorer just kept chugging along, largely unchanged. And unchanged. And unchanged.

Until now. The newest generation Explorer Sport is such a leap forward, it’s almost an injustice to think of it as just an evolution of what came before. Best of all, you can see the changes before you even turn the key. The new styling is more than a little “Range Rover,” and that’s a good thing. Ford’s 3.5 – litre EcoBoost V-6 won’t get you off the line first, but it pulls storngly as the turbos kick in. Ride quality is solid, yet agile (at least for this category). And the seats won’t punish you on the way to the Bay Area. It seats 7.

The Ford Explorer Sport starts at $40K, and moves north to $47K quickly enough. Not the cheapest choice in the market segment, but you’re not paying for evolution, you’re paying for revolution… and styling that makes it worth protecting in the parking lot.

(Photo courtesy manufacturer)

]]>http://losangeles.cbslocal.com/2013/12/10/its-a-revolution/feed/0Pay Attention, Please!http://losangeles.cbslocal.com/2013/07/10/pay-attention-please/
http://losangeles.cbslocal.com/2013/07/10/pay-attention-please/#commentsWed, 10 Jul 2013 16:50:29 +0000kshocknekhttp://losangeles.cbslocal.com/?p=403679The Genesis's nose looks like a Jaguar XK had a date with a Telsa Model S and this was the result]]>Half the fun of being a Car Guy (remember, the term Car Guy is gender-neutral, but the capitalized C and R are manditory), is getting people’s reaction to what you’re driving. I’m always surprised at what attracts attention, and what doesn’t. I still wonder what went wrong when I borrowed one of the first new-generation Camaro convertibles for a run to Bob’s Big Boy in Burbank on one of Bob’s impromptu Friday night car shows; no one gave it a second look. Odd, because the Camaro makes a big, bold statement. It screams “Look at me!”

It’s the exact opposite story with Hyundai’s frequently refreshed line of Genesis Coupes. They keep their voice down (mostly: we’ll talk performance in a moment), but I can’t tell you how many people stop to ask what I’m driving. It’s no surprise, Hyundai’s design squad has crafted a stylish ride.These are the same folks who created the Veloster, a 3-door Swiss Army Knife that –in matte brown– is the most unique car on any road, anywhere.

The Genesis’s nose looks like a Jaguar XK had a date with a Telsa Model S and this was the result, at about a third- or a quarter- of the cost. Hyundai has made certain the Genesis is affordable, by offering range of options, mostly in terms of engines.

So let’s go ahead and talk performance. Options range from a modest 4-cylinder, to a 4 cylinder wtih a smooth-spooling turbo, to a screaming 350 hp V-6. Prices range from about $26K to upwards of $35K. I’ve done track time in various coupes (don’t tell Hyundai … oh wait, they already know), and prefer the good old fashioned grunt of the rear-drive’s V-6. The turbo is fine — no turbo lag — but it’s no surprise the V-6 just feels stronger.

The fit and finish is what you’d expect from a Hyundai these days. Years ago, that wouldn’t necessarily have been a compliment, but it is now. And a day in the driver’s seat isn’t tiring. Noise from outside does work its way in; but when it’s your own car’s exhaust note, that’s not a bad thing.

Any of the Genesis coupes would be worthy rides to a weekend car show. Maybe with the single exception of a Friday night at Bob’s Big Boy. I tell ya, that crowd is tough.

]]>http://losangeles.cbslocal.com/2013/07/10/pay-attention-please/feed/0Perfect for the Early-Morning Crowd: the Guaranteed Alarm Clockhttp://losangeles.cbslocal.com/2013/04/15/perfect-for-the-early-morning-crowd-the-guaranteed-alarm-clock/
http://losangeles.cbslocal.com/2013/04/15/perfect-for-the-early-morning-crowd-the-guaranteed-alarm-clock/#commentsMon, 15 Apr 2013 16:53:31 +0000kshocknekhttp://losangeles.cbslocal.com/?p=365844If we are to believe everything we read, a university student in India invented the Good Morning Sing N Shock alarm clock, because he kept missing class. The clock rewards sleepers who hit the snooze […]]]>If we are to believe everything we read, a university student in India invented the Good Morning Sing N Shock alarm clock, because he kept missing class. The clock rewards sleepers who hit the snooze button with a mild (he says -Ed.) electrical shock. “…harmless, but enough to energize you,” he says. I bet.

On my shift, there’s never time to hit the snooze button. But I have never been able to figure out why the snooze button is so big, and the actual button to turn off the alarm –resetting for tomorrow, not disabling it for good– is so small.

And for anyone who cares; since oversleeping is not allowed on this shift, my secret is an old-fashioned clock radio on “94.7 the Wave” at 2:25 a.m., with my beeping alarm-watch on the same nightstand, set as a back-up at 2:26.

]]>http://losangeles.cbslocal.com/2013/04/15/perfect-for-the-early-morning-crowd-the-guaranteed-alarm-clock/feed/0Are You Addicted to the Internet? Take the Quizhttp://losangeles.cbslocal.com/2013/03/22/are-you-addicted-to-the-internet-take-the-quiz/
http://losangeles.cbslocal.com/2013/03/22/are-you-addicted-to-the-internet-take-the-quiz/#commentsFri, 22 Mar 2013 17:18:49 +0000kshocknekhttp://losangeles.cbslocal.com/?p=356455]]>While wasting time I should have spent online shopping performing research for this blog, I came across an interesting site that features a survey about whether you are addicted to the internet. It has the veneer of legitimacy. I took it and passed. (That’s not what makes it legit. I’m not sure exactly how it judges answers.)

Two things: 1) I wish it had offered the option ‘never’ instead of ‘rarely’ in each question. 2) If you are addicted, and interested in seeking a cure, the site offers books and help-aids that you can buy… online.

]]>http://losangeles.cbslocal.com/2013/03/22/are-you-addicted-to-the-internet-take-the-quiz/feed/0*Not the Kind of Sign, You Might Expect from the Churchhttp://losangeles.cbslocal.com/2013/03/15/not-the-kind-of-sign-you-might-expect-from-the-church/
http://losangeles.cbslocal.com/2013/03/15/not-the-kind-of-sign-you-might-expect-from-the-church/#commentsFri, 15 Mar 2013 16:51:32 +0000kshocknekhttp://losangeles.cbslocal.com/?p=353820I can’t promise that all of these are authentic (a church sign generator online is pretty hilarious), but having spent a couple of years in the Midwest and the South, I wouldnt bet against them […]]]>

I can’t promise that all of these are authentic (a church sign generator online is pretty hilarious), but having spent a couple of years in the Midwest and the South, I wouldnt bet against them being the real deal.

Actually, these are tame compared to some churches that really drive their points home hard.

]]>http://losangeles.cbslocal.com/2013/03/15/not-the-kind-of-sign-you-might-expect-from-the-church/feed/0The Billboard Model Who Reveals More than She Realized…http://losangeles.cbslocal.com/2013/03/04/the-billboard-model-who-reveals-more-than-she-realized/
http://losangeles.cbslocal.com/2013/03/04/the-billboard-model-who-reveals-more-than-she-realized/#commentsMon, 04 Mar 2013 18:04:22 +0000kshocknekhttp://losangeles.cbslocal.com/?p=349104...the best example yet that Darwin may have been wrong. ]]>A tip o’ the hat the to consistently hilarious web surfers at oddee.com, for gathering the best example yet, that Darwin may have been wrong. I can imagine the conversation back at the shop: “Did you guys install the new billboard?” “Yes, boss, we did.” More examples here.

]]>http://losangeles.cbslocal.com/2013/03/04/the-billboard-model-who-reveals-more-than-she-realized/feed/0“What Could Possibly Go Wrong?”- Spring Break Ideashttp://losangeles.cbslocal.com/2013/02/25/what-could-possibly-go-wrong-spring-break-ideas/
http://losangeles.cbslocal.com/2013/02/25/what-could-possibly-go-wrong-spring-break-ideas/#commentsMon, 25 Feb 2013 18:04:59 +0000kshocknekhttp://losangeles.cbslocal.com/?p=346154Darwin City, Australia, will let you pay $150 to enter its "Cage of Death," which -- to be accurate -- is actually more of a tube of death.]]>For those times, when bungee jumping doesn’t provide enough thrills, Crocosaurus Cove (no really, that’s its name) in Darwin City, Australia, will let you pay $150 to enter its “Cage of Death,” which — to be accurate — is actually more of a tube of death. I notice on its webpage, you also have the option of purchasing crocodile skin wallets. I’d rather do that:

Or we could go to the Lion Park:

This one, incredibly, doesn’t seem to be photoshopped:

(Photo sources: various, including Crocosaurus Cove, The Telegraph)

]]>http://losangeles.cbslocal.com/2013/02/25/what-could-possibly-go-wrong-spring-break-ideas/feed/0How Much Trouble are You in, if the Boss Catches You Doing This?http://losangeles.cbslocal.com/2013/02/14/how-much-trouble-are-you-in-if-the-boss-catches-you-doing-this/
http://losangeles.cbslocal.com/2013/02/14/how-much-trouble-are-you-in-if-the-boss-catches-you-doing-this/#commentsThu, 14 Feb 2013 18:02:19 +0000kshocknekhttp://losangeles.cbslocal.com/?p=341797...some of the following make me like an amatuer. To wit: the guy who has moved in, at his desk.]]>As I sit at my desk, napping searching for effective ways to stay awake comb the web for pointless helpful pictures, I learn I am not alone. In fact, some of the following make me like an amatuer. To wit: the guy who has moved in, at his desk:

Or this one (This shouldn’t last long. -Ed.)

Or this (Ditto. -Ed.)

World leaders and police….

(The answer: Bulgaria, I think.) I’d post more, but I have to …uh…uh… do further research. Let me get back to you.

]]>http://losangeles.cbslocal.com/2013/02/14/how-much-trouble-are-you-in-if-the-boss-catches-you-doing-this/feed/0Winners in Our Mugshots of the Month Contesthttp://losangeles.cbslocal.com/2013/02/11/winners-in-our-mugshots-of-the-month-contest/
http://losangeles.cbslocal.com/2013/02/11/winners-in-our-mugshots-of-the-month-contest/#commentsMon, 11 Feb 2013 17:57:10 +0000kshocknekhttp://losangeles.cbslocal.com/?p=340382Doing an online search will always reward.]]>When bored, or when looking for relatives who may not be on ancestors.com, there are always the latest booking photographs from various police agencies. Doing an online search will always reward. But remember: all suspects are considered innocent, until proven guilty in a court of law. (It’d be just my luck to lose a lawsuit to one of these folks.)

The rose really sells it. Next, the company that sells it, really sells it good with the Human Heart Jello Mold. (Just $6.95! Buy two!) I love the online sales pitch: “…perfect for lovebirds, med school students, and aspiring cannibals.”

And for those who are merely hungry, what about a Gummy Bear? Just one. Just one, really really big Gummy Bear…. Amazon will sell it to you for $34.99. 5 pounds, if you were curious. (“But Mom! I only ate 1 Gummy Bear!”)

Shop early and shop often: you don’t want to be left empty-handed on a day of such romance. And nothing says “I love you,” like a zombie, a jiggling human heart, or an edible bear. And no, I don’t get a cut of sales. If I did, I’d charge more for the Jello Mold.

]]>http://losangeles.cbslocal.com/2013/02/04/the-early-valentines-day-presents-you-didnt-think-of/feed/0Who Says There Aren’t Any Jobs Out There?http://losangeles.cbslocal.com/2013/01/10/who-says-there-arent-any-jobs-out-there/
http://losangeles.cbslocal.com/2013/01/10/who-says-there-arent-any-jobs-out-there/#commentsThu, 10 Jan 2013 17:53:08 +0000kshocknekhttp://losangeles.cbslocal.com/?p=326822I love the "able to read your schedule" qualifier. But I'm no master at S.Y.M.
]]>Even though the jobless rate remains unacceptably high there are companies that are hiring. Well, I’m not so sure about Blockbuster (below): it may be an old pic. Hey! it came from the global interweb, so maybe it’s been out there floating on the sky for a while.

I love the “able to read your schedule” qualifier. But I’m no master at S.Y.M.

]]>http://losangeles.cbslocal.com/2013/01/10/who-says-there-arent-any-jobs-out-there/feed/0The Bedroom Outfit that Guarentees a Sleepless Nighthttp://losangeles.cbslocal.com/2013/01/07/the-bedroom-outfit-that-guarentees-a-sleepless-night/
http://losangeles.cbslocal.com/2013/01/07/the-bedroom-outfit-that-guarentees-a-sleepless-night/#commentsMon, 07 Jan 2013 17:47:35 +0000kshocknekhttp://losangeles.cbslocal.com/?p=325472When the kids' sleepover gets out of control, just threaten to turn the lights on.]]>Is this the new Spring bedding line-up from “Blood Bath & Beyond?” When the kids’ sleepover gets out of control, just threaten to turn the lights on. What follows has all just appeared — with additional entries — on my favorite goof-off-at-work site, oddee.com

Personally, Id much rather my bedset had a more appetizing appearance:

The LondonDaily Mail can be depended on to sink its teeth into the Next Big Thing, and doesn’t disappoint with its story about the dolls, the doll maker, and the rubes collectors who pay up to $1500, per doll. Let me say that again: $1500 per doll. Doll-maker Shanine counts Sharon Osborne among her customers.

Curse the fates, that the gift-giving season already has passed. Check out the article on the link above, and the cool photography, courtesy the Caters News Agency. I wonder if the photographer got any sleep that night.

]]>http://losangeles.cbslocal.com/2013/01/02/from-the-not-creepy-at-all-department-baby-vampire-dolls/feed/0It’s Not a Suitcase, It’s a Coat: and Other Holiday Flying Trickshttp://losangeles.cbslocal.com/2012/12/20/its-not-a-suitcase-its-a-coat-and-other-holiday-flying-tricks/
http://losangeles.cbslocal.com/2012/12/20/its-not-a-suitcase-its-a-coat-and-other-holiday-flying-tricks/#commentsThu, 20 Dec 2012 17:50:38 +0000kshocknekhttp://losangeles.cbslocal.com/?p=319560Additional baggage fees, be damned! Somebody finally has invented the one item we’ve all been clamouring for, since the Wright brothers flew out of Kitty Hawk… a suitcase you can wear. It’s called the Jaktogo, […]]]>Additional baggage fees, be damned! Somebody finally has invented the one item we’ve all been clamouring for, since the Wright brothers flew out of Kitty Hawk… a suitcase you can wear. It’s called the Jaktogo, which, as far as I can tell, some guy in Ireland is serious about.

The Jaktogo starts life as a smooshed-up bag, the size of gym bag, but when the airplane says your carry-on is too big, Voila! Whip it out, and start transferring the contents into your Jaktogo! Then, wear all your extra clothes and underwear and electronics on your person, as you glide into seat 22C. Cost, apparently about $109.

I don’t have an economic interest in this product, nor as a responsible member of the CBS News organization am I allowed to make a commercial endorsement, but gee, even the models look happy to be a part of this exciting venture. (See below.) If only millions had known about Jaktogo in time to consider it as a thoughtful gift for traveling relatives and friends.

(Photos courtesy Jaktogo)

]]>http://losangeles.cbslocal.com/2012/12/20/its-not-a-suitcase-its-a-coat-and-other-holiday-flying-tricks/feed/0Fashion Update: Leggings for Menhttp://losangeles.cbslocal.com/2012/12/13/fashion-update-leggings-for-men/
http://losangeles.cbslocal.com/2012/12/13/fashion-update-leggings-for-men/#commentsThu, 13 Dec 2012 18:04:05 +0000kshocknekhttp://losangeles.cbslocal.com/?p=316753 ...ask yourself -- would you wear meggings if you're a man; or, if you're a woman, would you go out on a date with a megged-up guy...]]>Male+Leggings=Meggings. Apparently, a European trend (really? Really? -Ed.) that began over there in a region that also brought us the plague and brussel sprouts. Now, news.com.au reports that meggings “have started to take New York by storm, spotted by the likes of Justin Bieber and Lenny Kravitz.” Justin Bieber in tights. This stuff writes itself.

Before you say “Oh Kent, you’re so stuffy,” ask yourself — would you wear meggings if you’re a man; or, if you’re a woman, would you go out on a date with a megged-up guy.

Until such time, this will remain a megging-free zone. Sorry Justin. BTW: the guy below– is he holding a murse?

A phrase that does not come to mind, looking at this picture: “Bond, James Bond.”

(Photo courtesy Getty)

]]>http://losangeles.cbslocal.com/2012/12/13/fashion-update-leggings-for-men/feed/2How to Make Yourself Sick, Just for Funhttp://losangeles.cbslocal.com/2012/12/07/how-to-make-yourself-sick-just-for-fun/
http://losangeles.cbslocal.com/2012/12/07/how-to-make-yourself-sick-just-for-fun/#commentsFri, 07 Dec 2012 18:13:14 +0000kshocknekhttp://losangeles.cbslocal.com/?p=314436The Evo is one of only two cars in which I've almost become car-sick.... as a driver.]]>Where were some of these cars when I was growing up? Or, if not exactly growing up, learning to drive? Mitsubishi keeps cranking out performance-on-a-shoestring rides that are the most fun, this side of a carnival. Only now, they have styling to match their mad performance.

The Lancer line is a case in point: the Evolution looks like an only slightly dangerous cousin at the wedding, until you get in, buckle up, and hit the go-fast pedal. Mitsu has built these cars to fly (no surprise, coming from a company that’s made airplanes for decades). The Evo is one of only two cars in which I’ve almost become car-sick…. as a driver. And that’s a good thing. It’s a kick to toss around: it’s hard to believe how much performance you can wring out of it, on a skid pad.

For the slightly more conservative, there’s the Sportback, which packs a lot of interesting-looking styling, with more room in back, to stash stuff. It’s also nearly half as expensive as the $35K Evo… starting at about $18.5K.

Next up, look for the 2014 Mitsubishi Outlander, which debuted at the L.A. Auto Show. It’s not a sports car, but it’s a couple hundred pounds lighter than the 2013 model, so it should have better performance. And having spent time in the ’13, that’s good news. the ’13 was a decent driver, but the new model appears to be vastly improved, and will arrive next year with engine options, from a 2.4 litre 4, to a 224 hp V-6. Eventually, look for a plug-in hybrid as well. It’s not clear what it’ll cost yet… this year’s version starts just north of $23K.

Again, where were these cars 20 years ago? Oh yeah, the technology to make them either didn’t exist, or cost tens of thousands of dollars more.

(Photos courtesy manufacturer)

]]>http://losangeles.cbslocal.com/2012/12/07/how-to-make-yourself-sick-just-for-fun/feed/0Lose the Grin, and Look Prettierhttp://losangeles.cbslocal.com/2012/12/04/lose-the-grin-and-look-prettier/
http://losangeles.cbslocal.com/2012/12/04/lose-the-grin-and-look-prettier/#commentsTue, 04 Dec 2012 18:07:01 +0000kshocknekhttp://losangeles.cbslocal.com/?p=312679And for all those who say such main-streaming puts Mazda at risk of losing its iconic zoom-zoom status, good news: they're not messing with the Miata. ]]>There’s been a lot of focus these past couple of years over the futures of some of the ‘smaller’ Japanese auto makers. It’s tough out there, just ask Suzuki (which is pulling its cars –not its popular motorcycles– from U.S. shores).

But there are companies that are rising to the challenge. A couple of them feature prominently at the L.A. Auto Show. First, Mazda, which is famous for its vehicle grilles that look like its cars are smiling. Look now, because the grin is going away, and that’s a good thing. After years of partnership with Ford, Mazda is now on its own. Mazda last year introduced its new CUV, the CX-5; a start-from-scratch family hauler that looks good, and performs better. The AWD Grand Touring version would be perfect for taking up to a ski weekend at Arrowhead. It’s very comfortable to take on a long drive, with enough spirit to keep the driver engaged.

As a follow-up, this year, Mazda has debuted its new Mazda6, the company’s new mid-size 4-door, that will try to carve out a space for itself in one of the most competitive segments of the industry (think Accord, Corolla, Fusion, Optima, Malibu). Starting around $21K, the Mazda 6 looks, feels and sounds far more expensive. New styling shows a cabin, pushed back on the body, to make it look rear-wheel drive (it’s not).

Both Mazdas use the company’s new “SkyActiv” technology — design-speak for lighter parts, more efficient engines, better mileage and better handling. Whatever, it works.

And for all those who say such main-streaming puts Mazda at risk of losing its iconic zoom-zoom status, good news: they’re not messing with the Miata. Sorry, “MX-5″ (but always a Miata in our hearts). Or, not messing with it much. A limited Special Edition takes the most successful roadster in the world, and gives it an automatic retractable hardtop, premium and suspension packages, and sends it out the door. That this car still is such a hoot to drive, after more than 30 years in production, is a testament to Mazda’s dedication to keeping driving fun. –And hopefully a sign it will continue to do so, for many years more.

(Photos courtesy manufacturer)

]]>http://losangeles.cbslocal.com/2012/12/04/lose-the-grin-and-look-prettier/feed/0If Mad Max Had a Swiss Army Knife…http://losangeles.cbslocal.com/2012/12/03/if-mad-max-had-a-swiss-army-knife/
http://losangeles.cbslocal.com/2012/12/03/if-mad-max-had-a-swiss-army-knife/#commentsMon, 03 Dec 2012 18:10:17 +0000kshocknekhttp://losangeles.cbslocal.com/?p=312201]]>When you walk in the South Hall at the L.A. Convention Center for the L.A. Auto Show, the very first vehicle to greet you is the Hyundai Veloster Turbo. It’s the perfect car to remind you why you go to car shows.

If ever there was a Swiss Army Knife for car enthusiasts, the Veloster Turbo is it. It’s small enough to be city, sippy enough to return 35 MPG highway, zippy enough (thanks to turbocharging) to get there fast, and handles well enough to keep the driver engaged. Also, it has that asymmetrical third door, to load people — small people — into the back seat. The rear hatch holds enough for a weekend getaway. PS– there’s a sunroof that almost seems bigger than the car itself.

But I just like the way it looks: especially with its matte grey finish, and aggressive front end. Boys love their wide grilles and front-end scoops. The Veloster T features driving lights, 18″ wheels and chrome-tipped dual exhaust. It’s a lot of “Look at Me!”, for a starting price around $22K.

For the slightly more conservative, there’s the standard Veloster (below), almost as fun to drive and look at, for $17.5K. I think the original is fine, but the Turbo is ….. fine.

Hyundai’s battle plan of offering various trim levels at various prices is nothing new, and the Korean car maker knows how to do it. You want a rear-drive coupe that won’t embarrass at the supermarket parking lot? Get a Genesis Coupe 2.0T for $24,000. You want to do some (legal) street racing,? Get the 2.0 R-Spec for a couple $K more….

You want good ol’ fashioned v-6 grunt? Go for the upmarket Genesis Coupe 3.8. It’s offered in a touring package, that won’t embarrass at the golf course parking lot. You want to put it on the track? Voila, there’s a Coupe 3.8 Track model (below), that won’t embarrass at the races. Most of these cars sell in the high $20s; only the top-tier goes for more than 30.

I’ve done seat-time in all of these cars: Hyundai is doing-right by drivers who look on their cars as more than mobile connectivity pods to get from Point A to Point B.

(Photos courtesy manufacturer)

]]>http://losangeles.cbslocal.com/2012/12/03/if-mad-max-had-a-swiss-army-knife/feed/0Notes From the L.A. Auto Show, Part Ihttp://losangeles.cbslocal.com/2012/11/30/notes-from-the-l-a-auto-show-part-i/
http://losangeles.cbslocal.com/2012/11/30/notes-from-the-l-a-auto-show-part-i/#commentsFri, 30 Nov 2012 17:57:58 +0000kshocknekhttp://losangeles.cbslocal.com/?p=311143It looks aggressive, edgy, solid, and strong: all characteristics, the car itself exhibits.]]>KIA One of the manufacturers that’s impressed me (and almost everyone who writes about cars) this past year is Korean carmaker, Kia. It’s now a generally accepted fact, that Kia (and mother-ship, Hyundai) are comparable in quality to any Asian brand. Sometimes, better. With Toyota, Honda, and Mazda out there, that’s saying a lot. But what sets Kia apart to me , is its most recent direction in styling. Which means, it has one.

The Kia Optima checks all the right boxes for a 4/5 passenger midsize 4-door. It looks aggressive, edgy, solid, and strong: all characteristics, the car itself exhibits. Good move; and one that’s mirrored even in the line’s most-modest offering, the economical little Rio:

And my favorite, the Rio 5-door SX, a steal at around $18K :

Keep an eye on Kia. It’s design cues (car language) will make it worthwhile.

(Photos courtesy manufacturer)

]]>http://losangeles.cbslocal.com/2012/11/30/notes-from-the-l-a-auto-show-part-i/feed/0Group Costumes for Halloweenhttp://losangeles.cbslocal.com/2012/10/24/group-costumes-for-halloween/
http://losangeles.cbslocal.com/2012/10/24/group-costumes-for-halloween/#commentsWed, 24 Oct 2012 16:47:06 +0000kshocknekhttp://losangeles.cbslocal.com/?p=294904Years from now, we'll hope anyone who participates in group costumes for Halloween, 1) still are friends, and 2) never plan on running for office.
]]>Years from now, we’ll hope anyone who participates in group costumes for Halloween, 1) still are friends, and 2) never plan on running for office.

This year, so far, I haven’t seen a lot of costumes in bad taste. I’m sure they’re out there: I just haven’t seen them yet. The usual ‘ripped from today’s headlines’- stuff. You know the type. All I can say is, I’m glad Felix Baumgartner landed safely, for a number of reasons.

]]>http://losangeles.cbslocal.com/2012/10/24/group-costumes-for-halloween/feed/0When Good Dogs Go Badhttp://losangeles.cbslocal.com/2012/10/23/when-good-dogs-go-bad/
http://losangeles.cbslocal.com/2012/10/23/when-good-dogs-go-bad/#commentsTue, 23 Oct 2012 16:33:54 +0000kshocknekhttp://losangeles.cbslocal.com/?p=294305Dogs may be smarter than cats, but when either does something wrong, only the dogs get caught.]]>

(May be hard to read: “I sit and stare at people blankly, making them extremely uncomfortable”)

]]>http://losangeles.cbslocal.com/2012/10/23/when-good-dogs-go-bad/feed/6Pictures of Why it Pays to Have a Tattoo Artist Who Can Spelllhttp://losangeles.cbslocal.com/2012/10/02/pictures-of-why-it-pays-to-have-a-tattoo-artist-who-can-spelll/
http://losangeles.cbslocal.com/2012/10/02/pictures-of-why-it-pays-to-have-a-tattoo-artist-who-can-spelll/#commentsTue, 02 Oct 2012 16:50:54 +0000kshocknekhttp://losangeles.cbslocal.com/?p=284604It says “To young to die — To fast to live.” At least we know, too fast to put the second ‘o’ on the tail end of ‘To.” And wasn’t this (below) the title of a […]]]>It says “To young to die — To fast to live.” At least we know, too fast to put the second ‘o’ on the tail end of ‘To.” And wasn’t this (below) the title of a James Bond movie… or is it about an ingredient in ox-tail soup? (Marrow… get it? Marrow is a beef delicacy that you… Eh, forget it. -Ed.) And below that, one for the Hollywood crowd, because poor spelling can be a tradgey….

How ticked-off would you be, the first time someone told you your angry message had one slight little problem? I’m guessing, angrier. This young man –or woman, I can’t tell– is not smiling. ( If it’s too small, it says “Only God will juge me.”)

But worst of all, would be making a statement that you’re a really tough dude. Maybe the toughest dude in all Chi-Tonw. Which I assume is somewhere near Chi-Town, which is near Chicago. Or Chicgaco.

]]>http://losangeles.cbslocal.com/2012/10/02/pictures-of-why-it-pays-to-have-a-tattoo-artist-who-can-spelll/feed/0We Told You to be Careful When You See a Ball on the Streethttp://losangeles.cbslocal.com/2012/10/01/we-told-you-to-be-careful-when-you-see-a-ball-on-the-street/
http://losangeles.cbslocal.com/2012/10/01/we-told-you-to-be-careful-when-you-see-a-ball-on-the-street/#commentsMon, 01 Oct 2012 17:02:32 +0000kshocknekhttp://losangeles.cbslocal.com/?p=284091Ever teen driver learns that a ball, bouncing into a street, means there'll be a kid right behind it. if that were true here, it'd have to be a really big kid.
]]>Ever teen driver learns that a ball, bouncing into a street, means there’ll be a kid right behind it. if that were true here, it’d have to be a really big kid.

On some of these, I’m not even gonna ask how they happened…. Look below all these impossible to format around delightful sponsorships, to see more. (Is that a Ferrari under that Ford? -Ed.)

(Above — looks like San Francisco. I hope it’s not the entrance to Lombard Street.)

there are said to be more logic-deying pictures at auto.ifeng.com, but when I tried to link to it, it took forever to open, so I gave up, and can’t vouch for it.

]]>http://losangeles.cbslocal.com/2012/10/01/we-told-you-to-be-careful-when-you-see-a-ball-on-the-street/feed/0Photo Proof: There’s “Out of Order,” and there’s “REALLY Out of Order”http://losangeles.cbslocal.com/2012/09/26/photo-proof-theres-out-of-order-and-theres-really-out-of-order/
http://losangeles.cbslocal.com/2012/09/26/photo-proof-theres-out-of-order-and-theres-really-out-of-order/#commentsWed, 26 Sep 2012 16:48:44 +0000kshocknekhttp://losangeles.cbslocal.com/?p=282079Is there a restaurant grade, below “F”? What soda dispenser is gummed up, on 5 of its 6 nozzles? Some other choice samples include nicely labeled ‘out of order’ signs… and nicely labeled signs with […]]]>Is there a restaurant grade, below “F”? What soda dispenser is gummed up, on 5 of its 6 nozzles? Some other choice samples include nicely labeled ‘out of order’ signs… and nicely labeled signs with questionable typeface.

On this one, I like the ‘nom nom nom.’

(Photo source:oddee.com , one of the greatest time-wasters research sites, ever invented for the web.)

]]>http://losangeles.cbslocal.com/2012/09/26/photo-proof-theres-out-of-order-and-theres-really-out-of-order/feed/0Why Did the Space Shuttle Have THIS Nickname?http://losangeles.cbslocal.com/2012/09/19/why-did-the-space-shuttle-have-this-nickname/
http://losangeles.cbslocal.com/2012/09/19/why-did-the-space-shuttle-have-this-nickname/#commentsWed, 19 Sep 2012 17:04:55 +0000kshocknekhttp://losangeles.cbslocal.com/?p=278912Good and bad, it was always exciting reporting on the Space Shuttle program. Where else could you be paid for nosing around inside the shuttles? But I still wish they'd come up with a better nickname... ]]>As the last Space Shuttle arrives in Southern California, we get a last chance to think about more than 30 years of memories, among the locals who put the fleet together. (I’m talking to you, Palmdale and Downey).

So whose bright idea was it, to call the shuttles “Flying Brickyards”? We may never find out ‘who’, but the real reason is less sinister than the title sounds.

Actually, there are two reasons:

#1, The shuttle does indeed drop like a brick. If your standard commercial flight descends at a rate of about “1 foot down, for every 22 feet forward,” the shuttle plummets in at “1 foot down, for every 4 feet forward.” Roller-coaster drops, anyone?

#2, Shuttles are covered in those protective heat tiles, making-up the orbitors’ “Thermal Protection System.” — They were designed to keep the Shuttle from burning up on re-entry. Every shuttle had its underside and wing-edges covered in these tiles that were about the size of a brick (but a fraction of the weight). “Flying Brickyard.” Get it? It would take one worker, one day, to put on one tile. They were extremely delicate, and I remember hanging around the Kennedy Space Center’s Orbitor Processing Facility, when they’d get word that one was broken, or damaged, or late, or didn’t fit. Problems with the tiles were one of two big issues, leading to delays in the first flight in 1981. (The other was the main-engine system.)

Good and bad, it was always exciting reporting on the Space Shuttle program. (See plucky young reporter at KSC’s Launch Control Center, above). Where else could you be paid for nosing around inside the shuttles? But I still wish they’d come up with a better nickname than Flying Brickyard.

Welcome home, Endevour.

]]>http://losangeles.cbslocal.com/2012/09/19/why-did-the-space-shuttle-have-this-nickname/feed/0The World’s Best Fake I.D.s — Nothttp://losangeles.cbslocal.com/2012/09/10/the-worlds-best-fake-i-d-s-not/
http://losangeles.cbslocal.com/2012/09/10/the-worlds-best-fake-i-d-s-not/#commentsMon, 10 Sep 2012 16:54:46 +0000kshocknekhttp://losangeles.cbslocal.com/?p=274497Most didn't check for his age, but six that did, still sold it to him, even though he didn't remotely resemble cartoon character Bobby Hill.
]]>Back-to-school time, is the season when we compare fake I.D.s, obtained over Summer. Uncle Sam is making it harder to get realistic ones, but some of these people aren’t even trying. Still, it doesn’t matter if the person on the other end doesn’t really care….

In Great Britain, local authorities sent an underage kid into 22 stores to buy liquor. Most didn’t check for his age, but six that did, still sold it to him, even though he didn’t remotely resemble cartoon character Bobby Hill.

At least sometimes the system works: ask Brazilian Ricardo Freire de Barros… what a Joker…

]]>http://losangeles.cbslocal.com/2012/09/10/the-worlds-best-fake-i-d-s-not/feed/0Robber, Burglar, or Moron? You be the Judgehttp://losangeles.cbslocal.com/2012/08/30/robber-burglar-or-moron-you-be-the-judge/
http://losangeles.cbslocal.com/2012/08/30/robber-burglar-or-moron-you-be-the-judge/#commentsThu, 30 Aug 2012 17:10:57 +0000kshocknekhttp://losangeles.cbslocal.com/?p=270423 But what really landed him in his current sorry state, is that ...
]]>Go-getting young moron Pennsylvanian Jonathon Parker is under arrested on burglary charges. He’s accused of stealing a couple of rings from inside a home. He’s not accused of checking his Facebook status while inside; because he’s pretty much already confessed to that, by writing about his exploits (allegedly -Ed.) from his “host’s” computer.

He wrote (allegedly -Ed.) “Robbing a house! LMAO — I’ll never get caught!!!!!” (See above — if you can read it.) Well, we could tell he wasn’t the brightest bulb in the tanning bed, when he confused the word ‘robbing,’ with ‘burgling,’ or ‘burglarizing.’ But what really landed him in his current sorry state, is that …

…he forgot to log out, when he was done (allegedly -Ed.) The resident comes home, figures out what happened, and Mr. Parker now has extra time to work on his grammar. And his computer skills.

]]>http://losangeles.cbslocal.com/2012/08/30/robber-burglar-or-moron-you-be-the-judge/feed/0Your Dream Job Has Arrived: But Do You Have What It Takes?http://losangeles.cbslocal.com/2012/08/27/your-dream-job-has-arrived-but-do-you-have-what-it-takes/
http://losangeles.cbslocal.com/2012/08/27/your-dream-job-has-arrived-but-do-you-have-what-it-takes/#commentsMon, 27 Aug 2012 17:00:36 +0000kshocknekhttp://losangeles.cbslocal.com/?p=268978I'm conflicted: on one hand, I'm deeply offended by the obvious racism of this ploy. How dare they think I'm smart, just because I'm white. ]]>Do we believe this? I found it on the internet, so it probably has to be true. Apparently in China, you can get a job (and by ‘you,’ I mean ‘I’) where all you have to do is show up and be a white guy. The usually reliable oddity central reports that Chinese companies hire white guys to sit near the windows –talk about ‘window dressing’ — and, voila!, that Chinese company has more credibility among clients it’s trying to impress. The thinking apparently goes, that –if the company can afford to hire white guys– it must be successful enough to be a desirable place to do business.

I’m conflicted: on one hand, I’m deeply offended by the obvious racism of such a ploy as this. How dare they think I’m smart, just because I’m a white guy ? On the other hand, I am smart enough to know I’d love to sit around and play on the computer all day, and get paid for not actually doing anything productive. (Insert your joke here. -Ed.)

I’m not sure how you get one of these jobs: I’m not sure what would look good on a resume. If you have some insider knowledge, let me know. But I probably won’t read your email, because my computer’s screen is frozen on the 8th level of Bejeweled. And if that doesn’t qualify me for the job, I don’t know what does.

]]>http://losangeles.cbslocal.com/2012/08/21/scientific-proof-dogs-are-smarter-than-cats/feed/0Airport Security’s Least-Favorite Person of the Weekhttp://losangeles.cbslocal.com/2012/08/14/airport-securitys-least-favorite-person-of-the-week/
http://losangeles.cbslocal.com/2012/08/14/airport-securitys-least-favorite-person-of-the-week/#commentsTue, 14 Aug 2012 17:06:20 +0000kshocknekhttp://losangeles.cbslocal.com/?p=264226﻿So the guy whose jet-ski conked out, so he had to swim and wade on over to JFK airport for help, now has been charged with trespassing.
]]>So the guy whose jet-ski conked out, so he had to swim and wade on over to JFK airport for help, now has been charged with trespassing.

Let’s review: Daniel Castillo is playing in Jamaica Bay, when his engine quits. He gets to shore, walks around a bit… past a couple of runways, hops over a security fence, wanders past an electronic security system (Lights! Cameras! Sensors!), and into a terminal.

The security people are shocked; shocked! This system has been billed as ‘state of the art.’ It’s so good, they use it at other airports. Except, apparently, it doesn’t work.

Is it fair they’re arresting the man who –apparently inadvertently– demonstrated that the ‘emperor has no clothes’? His name’s not BinLaden, it’s Castillo. He should be getting an award. But don’t hold your breath, Daniel.

]]>http://losangeles.cbslocal.com/2012/08/08/perfect-parental-notes-for-back-to-school/feed/4Skinning Defenseless Small Animals for Fun and Profithttp://losangeles.cbslocal.com/2012/08/06/skinning-defenseless-small-animals-for-fun-and-profit/
http://losangeles.cbslocal.com/2012/08/06/skinning-defenseless-small-animals-for-fun-and-profit/#commentsMon, 06 Aug 2012 16:45:15 +0000kshocknekhttp://losangeles.cbslocal.com/?p=260804For her part, the principal reminds that "Animals aren't the only species who are dressed up after they die. We do it to humans too." ]]>The old saying goes, “There’s more than one way to skin a cat.” And in New Zealand, they have found it. And if not a cat, close enough: a possum. The Taranaki Daily News reports a school district there held a contest to see which kid could bring in the best costumed possum. Criteria: the possum had to be costumed. And it had to be dead. You can’t make this stuff up. It gets worse bettter: one of the entrants was outfitted like a boxer, but it was skinned.

Said it before, I’ll say it again. Ewwwwwww. But if you’ve read this far, you’ll want to know it gets still worser better-er: the contest is part of a fund-raiser for a school pig hunt. Good God, these people have a very specific mindset about their animals. Of course there’s been a huge backlash online: several comments, involving the word ‘sick.’ For her part, the principal reminds that “Animals aren’t the only species who are dressed up after they die. We do it to humans too.” Also, the pig-hunt fund-raiser reportedly raised $8,000– twice what everybody expected. Look out, pigs.

]]>http://losangeles.cbslocal.com/2012/08/06/skinning-defenseless-small-animals-for-fun-and-profit/feed/0Signs the Housing Market is Really in Troublehttp://losangeles.cbslocal.com/2012/08/02/signs-the-housing-market-is-really-in-trouble/
http://losangeles.cbslocal.com/2012/08/02/signs-the-housing-market-is-really-in-trouble/#commentsThu, 02 Aug 2012 16:37:32 +0000kshocknekhttp://losangeles.cbslocal.com/?p=259507"Owner ready to croak must sell" would be one sign. Another would be calling your house a 'gem, except for asbestos."
]]>“Owner ready to croak must sell” would be one sign. Another would be calling your house a ‘gem, except for asbestos.”

]]>http://losangeles.cbslocal.com/2012/08/02/signs-the-housing-market-is-really-in-trouble/feed/0The Business Opportunity of A Lifetimehttp://losangeles.cbslocal.com/2012/07/30/the-business-opportunity-of-a-lifetime/
http://losangeles.cbslocal.com/2012/07/30/the-business-opportunity-of-a-lifetime/#commentsMon, 30 Jul 2012 16:54:44 +0000kshocknekhttp://losangeles.cbslocal.com/?p=257615It’s what makes America great. Two guys, selling tap water to oblivious naive trend-chasers savvy, health-conscious consumers at $2.50 a bottle. In New York’s East Village, Adam Ruhf and Alexander Venet have opened the Molecule Water Cafe, where […]]]>It’s what makes America great. Two guys, selling tap water to oblivious naive trend-chasers savvy, health-conscious consumers at $2.50 a bottle.

In New York’s East Village, Adam Ruhf and Alexander Venet have opened the Molecule Water Cafe, where New York City tap water is run through a –according to the write-up– “complex seven-step process… that uses UV light, ozone treatments, and reverse osmosis” to turn ordinary tap water into ordinary tap water that’s been run through UV light, ozone treatments, and reverse osmosis. And costs $2.50.

My favorite line, from an article that appears on odditycentral.com, reads “The owners say so far none of those who have tried Molecule water has complained about the taste.” High praise, indeed.

]]>http://losangeles.cbslocal.com/2012/07/30/the-business-opportunity-of-a-lifetime/feed/0Urn Your Way to Immortalityhttp://losangeles.cbslocal.com/2012/07/26/urn-your-way-to-immortality/
http://losangeles.cbslocal.com/2012/07/26/urn-your-way-to-immortality/#commentsThu, 26 Jul 2012 17:13:29 +0000kshocknekhttp://losangeles.cbslocal.com/?p=256077Photographs show how mourners apparently can unscrew the deceased's head, and store things other than ashes.]]>This started out, just to be a story about how creepy it is that you can remember the dearly departed with a cremation urn that looks like the dearly departed. Especially, if the dearly departed bears a resemblance to David Duchovny (see pic.) A Vermont company called Cremation Solutions only needs a couple of pictures to create a computer-generated, 3-d, life-size severed head-on-a-plate, to remind you of your loved one, every time you look on the floor at the back of the closet over by the water heater. (Full-size, $2,600. “Keepsake” size, a bargain at $600.)

But exhaustive research (read: Google searching Cremation Solutions -Ed.) has turned things a bit more disquieting. Photographs show how mourners apparently can unscrew the deceased’s head, and store things other than ashes. In this example, it appears we’re seeing a candle,and some plastic flowers.

And then there’s this. Head held high, the company reminds that we don’t have to use our own faces, we can use the faces of others. Says the web page: “…your loved one or favorite celebrity or hero, even President Obama!” (Exclamation point, theirs.)

Hmmmmmmmm. Ooooooooooooo-kayyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyy. Maybe I’m old-fashioned, but I’m wondering if it’s right to use an image of the still-living leader of the free world, as a selling point for a head on a plate? I’m thinking no. Yes, I’m aware there are 2-thousand jokes that could be made from both sides of the aisle. I will let others tell them. Instead I will sit here wagging my finger, and telling Cremation Solutions “Tsk tsk.”

It is a nice likeness though.

]]>http://losangeles.cbslocal.com/2012/07/26/urn-your-way-to-immortality/feed/0Comic-Con is Over: but These Images Will Stay with Us Foreverhttp://losangeles.cbslocal.com/2012/07/25/comic-con-is-over-but-these-images-will-stay-with-us-forever/
http://losangeles.cbslocal.com/2012/07/25/comic-con-is-over-but-these-images-will-stay-with-us-forever/#commentsWed, 25 Jul 2012 17:00:22 +0000kshocknekhttp://losangeles.cbslocal.com/?p=255476Quick! Post these profile pictures on Linkedin: they scream "I'm unique!" Boy, do they scream it. ]]>Quick! Post these profile pictures on Linkedin: they scream “I’m unique!” Boy, do they scream it. OK, from this year’s Comic Convention in San Diego: first, there’s:

Moving on quickly: there’s, –uh… this guy:

Green Spandex Man, and friend, Invisible-against-the-background Man:

R2-D Kitty. I think.

And (What the Hell? -Ed.)

And we leave you with Princess Leia, when she was the harem slave of that Banana Slug guy in Star Wars V (maybe– they’re all the same to me). Or maybe it’s Xena. Or I Dream of Jeannie. You be the judge. And may the Force be with you.

]]>http://losangeles.cbslocal.com/2012/07/25/comic-con-is-over-but-these-images-will-stay-with-us-forever/feed/0The Greatest Vending Machine, Ever Invented. Ever.http://losangeles.cbslocal.com/2012/07/18/the-greatest-vending-machine-ever-invented-ever/
http://losangeles.cbslocal.com/2012/07/18/the-greatest-vending-machine-ever-invented-ever/#commentsWed, 18 Jul 2012 16:41:26 +0000kshocknekhttp://losangeles.cbslocal.com/?p=2528297-11 is rolling out mashed-potato-dispensing vending machines at stores here in the U.S. USA! USA! Actually, the technology is not new: they already have them in Singapore, and a similar device delivers grease to heavy […]]]>7-11 is rolling out mashed-potato-dispensing vending machines at stores here in the U.S. USA! USA! Actually, the technology is not new: they already have them in Singapore, and a similar device delivers grease to heavy equipment pistons on farm machinery assembly lines.

$1, and a cup under the nozzle (That must be an attractive sound. -Ed.), and you’re in biz. The chicken gravy only takes two seconds, to drip on top. Gizmodo makes the legitimate point that you should be able to get just the chicken gravy, if you want. If you see one of these devices in So Cal, I want to drop $5 or $6, just to see how horrible the concept of dining has become know about it, for the sake of science. Top it off with an adjacent Slurpee, and stick a fork in me, I’m done.

]]>http://losangeles.cbslocal.com/2012/07/18/the-greatest-vending-machine-ever-invented-ever/feed/0Things That Aren’t What They Seem at Your Neighborhood Barhttp://losangeles.cbslocal.com/2012/07/10/things-that-arent-what-they-seem-at-your-neighborhood-bar/
http://losangeles.cbslocal.com/2012/07/10/things-that-arent-what-they-seem-at-your-neighborhood-bar/#commentsTue, 10 Jul 2012 16:54:32 +0000kshocknekhttp://losangeles.cbslocal.com/?p=249764Are bartenders getting more clever, or are their customers getting more drunker?
]]>Are bartenders getting more clever, or are their customers getting more drunker?

(Hard to read, but it says “The NAKED truth about our WAITRESSES is that they only FLIRT WITH YOU to get better tips” The one below says FREE wifi great BEER

]]>http://losangeles.cbslocal.com/2012/07/10/things-that-arent-what-they-seem-at-your-neighborhood-bar/feed/0The Perfect Summer Moviehttp://losangeles.cbslocal.com/2012/07/06/the-perfect-summer-movie/
http://losangeles.cbslocal.com/2012/07/06/the-perfect-summer-movie/#commentsFri, 06 Jul 2012 16:50:03 +0000kshocknekhttp://losangeles.cbslocal.com/?p=248383 His expertise in the sport and the craft of film-making is obvious. Big -time Hollywood will find him soon. See Bro' now, and you can say you saw him first.
]]>Some good news: one of the most original action films in years is getting more screen time in Southern California theaters, starting today. (Details below.) It’s not The Amazing Spiderman, though I really liked the big scene near Spiderman’s end, where an off-camera newscaster warned people. (I wish they’d given him a screen credit so we could know who it was.)

Bro’ is a roller-coaster of a ride through the world of freestyle motocross riding, starring real life superstars Beau Manley and Colin “Scummy” Morrison. Their stunt riding is astonishing. But Bro’ has an equally captivating story: an unworldly college boy falls to the lure of the lifestyle, including the money, the women, and the violence; then has to figure out what to do. Long-time fan favorite Danny Trejo stars. He is Hollywood’s go-to guy when productions want to cast the meanest, most tattooed, toughest star. Umm, Trejo does not play the college boy. And know this, going in: this is a film with most of the things the MPAA warns you about.

What I love most about Bro’ is director-essay writer Nick Parada’s obvious passion for his job. He puts the audience right on the handlebars for some of the most insane stunt riding you could expect to see. His expertise in the sport –and the craft of film-making– is obvious. Big -time Hollywood will find him soon. See Bro’ now, and you can say you saw him first.

The entire budget of the independent film Bro’ was probably dwarfed by the craft-services budget for Spidey, but so what?: when you see something with this much energy in front of-, and behind- the camera, you’ll remember why movies are fun.

Bro’ now is showing at AMC Norwalk 20 in Norwalk, Laemmle Boulevard Cinemas in Lancaster, and AMC Ontario Mills 30 in Ontario. Link to trailer (that has a lot of the words they don’t teach in school), here. Full disclosure: I may sound like a cheerleader, but I don’t have a dog in this fight. However, if they ever make a sequel and need an off-camera newscaster to warn people about something, I can make a recommendation.